This story has been updated with information about the closing of Adventure Zone.
Thousands of Claire’s stores could close nationwide if a buyer is not found soon, according to a USA Today reports. So far, 18 Claire’s and Icing stores around the country are on a list to close since the chain filed for bankruptcy for a second time Aug. 6.
The Illinois-based company, which has 1,326 stores across the U.S., has faced financial challenges due to the rise of fast-fashion brands like Shein and Temu, high rent costs, and new tariffs from supplier nations, including China, based on documents filed with the U.S. bankruptcy court in Delaware.
In court filings, Claire’s CEO, Chris Cramer, disclosed that the company has recently solicited bids for its business and has received multiple letters of intent to purchase its assets.
Claire’s specializes in selling necklaces, bracelets, and various accessories, including headphones and stuffed animals.
In El Paso, a salesperson at Claire’s store at the Cielo Vista Mall said it is unknown if the store will close. However, she mentioned the store currently has 30 to 40% off sales.
Here is a list of stores, including Icing locations, that the company is planning to close, according to court filings.
Jungle Jaks has closed its doors on East Side
El Pasoans are reminiscing about Jungle Jaks, a popular children’s entertainment center, after realizing it has closed.
People on social media are remembering taking their children to the center, at the Zaragoza Plex at 1700 N Zaragoza Road, while commenting that more are needed in El Paso. Memories including celebrating birthdays there and seeing ZZ the Clown entertaining the kids.
It is the second family entertainment center that has closed in recent months.
Adventure Zone closed early August after 23 years
Earlier this month, Adventure Zone on the West Side closed its doors on Aug. 3. The center was known for its go-karts, mini golf and famed McCrory’s tacos.
The owner of entertainment center, J.R. Phillips, said in a text the last day was a great compliment from the community.
“When people found out we were closing Sunday at four we had a long line of people ordering tacos. We weren’t expecting such a rush as I was kind of looking too quietly right off into the sunset, but it was great. We were having to make them like crazy. Wait times were up to an hour and they waited, which is a great compliment as far as I’m concerned,” he said.
Phillips said he is proud of the center’s track record in terms of being a safe place for families but it’s time for him to relax.
“We are closing because I am getting up there in years and it is time for me to relax and enjoy. My son Jordan, who was instrumental in our success from 12-37 years old is also ready for new challenges and opportunities.”
Phillips said he would be open to talking to someone interested in keeping the tacos business aspect alive.
“They started at the McCrory pharmacy almost 100 years ago. Customers have told me they remind them of the tacos their grandmothers used to make in Juarez. Many people think they are the absolute best in town. Having the best tacos in the Mexican food capital of the world is saying something. I would like to thank all of the customers and employees and partners on various events. Without you, these past 23 years would not have been possible,” he concluded.
Big Frog Custom T-shirts & More closes after 8 years
Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More, a T-shirt making business that often worked with schools in El Paso, closed on the East Side in July. The business, at 12210 Montwood Dr STE 104, was operated by Angie Rodriguez for eight years.
Rodriguez expressed her gratitude to her customers as she and her husband opened the business with no prior business ownership.
“This difficult decision to close my doors, was not easy, but it comes with peace and pride in knowing how far this dream has come 8 years. I poured everything into this business, and while this chapter is ending, the experience has left me stronger, wiser, and even more appreciative of what it means to be a part of the small business community,” Rodriguez said in a Facebook post.
María Cortés González may be reached at 915-546-6150; mcortes@elpasotimes.com; @eptmaria.bsky.social on Bluesky, and @eptmariacg on TikTok
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: From Claire’s to Jungle Jaks, store closures hit El Paso
Reporting by Maria Cortes Gonzalez, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
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